October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month!

Many people talk about the importance of ending domestic violence, but talk doesn't do much unless you can back it up with action....pick your way of getting active from the following list of events...

As many of you probably know, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).  The theme for this year is "Walk the Walk".  During the month of October there will be four opportunities to literally "walk the walk".  The Domestic Violence Awareness Month Committee is hosting events that will focus on raising awareness and letting people know they can actively help end domestic violence in their communities.

 

The "launch" event this year will take place on Wednesday, October 1, beginning at 4:30.  The launch event is called "Steakout" Against Domestic Violence, and will be held in Battery Park, right next to the police station.  There will be a BBQ, walk, entertainment and children's activities. 

The second "walk" will be held on Tuesday, October 8th at noon at the Essex Police Department, located on Route 15 in Essex just beyond the 5 corners. 

The third gathering will take place on Saturday October 18th at 9:30 A.M. at the Williston Central School, Route 2 in the village of Williston, and the last walk event on Tuesday, October 22nd at noon at the Colchester Police Department, located on Blakely Road in Colchester. 

Each walk event will feature a law enforcement speaker, relevant art displays, information on how to get involved and a walk for awareness. 

There will also be three interactive opportunities to learn more about the effect of domestic violence, have your voice heard and support survivors. 

On October 14th from 6-9 "Born Into Brothels" will be presented by UVM Women's Center at the Living and Learning - Fireplace Lounge. 

On October 18th from 10-noon Women Writing for Change is hosting a free workshop, "Refusing Silence: The necessity of Voicing our Stories".  Participants will have time to reflect on silence and speaking out in their life; and an opportunity to write and be heard in a supportive and confidential space.  This event will be held at 12 Howard Street, Burlington

The final event will be held on Thursday, October 30th at 5:30.  This will be a Candle-lit Vigil and Survivor Speakout. This is a chance to honor the courage of victims and survivors.  It is also an opportunity to share your story and create awareness through real life experience.  This event will take place at Contois Auditorium, Burlington.

All events are free and open to the public.  If you would like more information about any of these events please call Amy at 658-3131, or amyh@whbw.org.

We hope that you will be able to make it to one of the events.  Stand up against violence! Make a difference, Walk the Walk...